The CDS framed the mission of bases like Tanji, Kalagi, and Barra as nothing less than guarding the nation’s future.
“The Tanji, Kalagi, and the Barra FOB are the main gatekeepers of our marine waters,” the CDS affirmed. “If we compromise them, then our main defence now is brick.”
He drew a stark military analogy, warning that any unguarded point invites disaster, making the nation’s position untenable.
Highlighting Tanji’s bustling economic activity driven largely by foreign fishermen, the CDS acknowledged the current reality but stressed Gambia’s sovereign rights.
“We are happy about that. Hopefully, we will develop our capacities,” he said, adding: “But what we can do is to control who comes in. And then anybody who comes in must also respect our laws.”
CDS Cham linked maritime security directly to national prosperity, emphasising three main points: fishing, oil exploration, and exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
For fishing, he said vital revenue is at stake, with foreign operators currently dominant.
On oil exploration, he notes that hopes for future oil drilling (“if God gives us what we want”) depend on secure waters, promising funds for better naval platforms.
On the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and emphasising The Gambia’s 200-nautical mile EEZ, the CDS asserted the right to control all economic activity within it, demanding permits and payments.
“That is why the Navy is a very important and a very powerful part of the defence architecture,” he said.
He dismissed any notion of the Navy being undervalued, saying “even though we call you waterboys”. He declared profound respect: “If anybody underrates you, just put him in your boat, go two kilometres out there, he will change his mind.”
He pledged continued efforts to improve soldier welfare, calling human resources the military’s most important tool.
The CDS further issued critical demands to the Navy on being committed, warning against losing trained personnel to allurements abroad.
He stressed the long training required for naval specialists demands unwavering dedication, and urged discipline within the army.
Equally highlighting the exorbitant cost of naval assets from vehicles ($40,000+) to patrol boats (millions), CDS urged personnel to treat them with extreme care: “handle them with care and then protect them like we protect our life.”
Additionally, he delivered a chilling warning based on a recent tragedy in Senegal where sailors were lost during a boarding operation, saying: “Never take safety and security for granted. You must have covering fire, if anybody jeopardises your life, you take him off before he takes you off.”
He stated unequivocally: “Your life is more precious to me than any bad guy out there.”
Ending on a resolute note, the CDS reinforced the Navy’s core mission: “We are here to protect the lives and properties of our country. We can accommodate everybody. But when you want to take advantage of us for the detriment of our Gambian lives, we will knock you off. And those are your orders.”
